Man found guilty of causing North Main Manor fire

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Anthony Laudicina, 58, was found guilty of arson after starting a fire at the North Main Manor Apartments.

Paramedics were approached by Laudicina when they arrived on the scene on November 30, 2024. He told first responders that he started the fire because men with guns were chasing him.

One victim of an apartment fire was taken to a local hospital in critical condition.

The fire was put out, and there was no one in the apartment, according to firefighters.

A victim seriously injured due to the fire was in the lobby and was transported to OSF St. Anthony. There were no other injuries.

RFD estimated there was about $20,000 in damages to the complex.

Laudicina could face up to 45 years in prison and 6 years of supervised release.

His next court hearing is on July 1.